When I started in Property Management seven years ago I realized I needed more education and certifications that are recognizable to Property Management Companies. I was lucky that my immediate supervisor had had the same questions and through her research had discovered Real Estate Institute of Canada (REIC) where she was able to obtain two certifications – Accredited Residential Manager (ARM) and Certified Property Manager (CPM).
She directed me to the REIC website and encouraged me to be a member before I enroll for my ARM certification to enjoy course discounts which would be huge savings. Besides the monetary benefit of being a member I also get to participate in the local Chapter's seminars which are a great way to network and meet some of our industry leaders (between you and me the food at these events is AMAZING!!!), receive the monthly industry publication and a vast of resources on their websites.
REIC is the only national provider of advanced education and designation programs that embraces all real estate industry sectors. The courses and programs they offer help shape the future of the real estate industry by enhancing the skills of talented professionals and exceptional business leaders. REIC has been educating and certifying specialists since 1955.
As a member of REIC I am bound by the Institute's Code of Professional Standards and the REIC Membership logo and designations unites its members and represent a stamp of quality and standard of business practice.REIC is in partnership with the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) – an international community with over 20,000 individual members and 570 companies. IREM is the only organization serving both the multi-family and commercial sectors.
IREM believes:
- That good management matters
- That well-managed properties pay dividends in terms of value and in the quality of life for residents, tenants, and customers
- In professional ethics
- In the power of knowledge and the importance of sharing it
Anyways, mid-2013 I completed my first designation and I am now an ARM certified professional. Immediately after I started working on my CPM. With the help and support of Mainstreet Equity Corp. I completed my last CPM module the dreaded Management Plan Skills Assessment (thanks Graham for helping me with preparation).
By the end of this year, I will have my CPM designation. It's been a long journey but worth it, one I would recommend to everyone in our industry – starting out or seasoned the knowledge and certifications are worth it!
Mainstreet Equity Corp. is a publicly-traded (TSX: MEQ) residential real estate company in Canada. Mainstreet currently owns and operates properties in Surrey, BC; New Westminster, BC; Abbotsford, BC; Calgary, AB; Cochrane, AB; Lethbridge, AB; Edmonton, AB; Fort Saskatchewan, AB; and Saskatoon, SK.Mainstreet provides affordable, renovated apartment suites to Canadians, and is committed to creating real value without diluting shareholder interests.